1.0 Overview

Ekopanely Group, headquartered in Jedousov, Přelouč region of the Czech Republic, boasts a longstanding tradition in manufacturing strawboard—an eco-friendly, waste-straw processing technology for the building construction industry. This innovative approach has now extended its reach to Nigeria through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). The initiative seeks to transform agricultural waste into wealth while delivering affordable housing to National Housing Fund contributors.

A Franchise Agreement between Ekopanely Nigeria Ltd. and NASENI was formalized on 16th June 2022, leveraging a Build, Operate, and Franchise (BOF) model. The project entails the phased establishment of Eco-panel Manufacturing Plants across Nigeria, with the first phase installing one production line per plant and gradually scaling up to ten production lines over the implementation timeframe. Financing support is provided by the Czech Export Bank and EGAP, in collaboration with the Bank of Industry.

The Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) is spearheading the oversight, coordination, and execution of this initiative. Its mandate is to ensure seamless technology transfer, capacity building, and alignment with Nigeria’s development priorities, fostering sustainable growth and industrialization.

2.0 Relocation to Bauchi State

2.1 Tiamin Rice Farm Partnership

Tiamin Rice Farm, situated in Gamawa, Bauchi State, is a key partner in this initiative. Covering 10,000 hectares, the farm produces high yields of rice straw—a critical raw material for eco-panel production. Supported by Jaiz Bank and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s P-AADS initiative, Tiamin’s operations align perfectly with Ekopanely Nigeria’s mission to create sustainable building materials.

The farm features advanced irrigation systems, including solar-powered boreholes and dams, ensuring consistent supply and optimal farming conditions. Over 2,000 hectares are currently cultivated, generating approximately 3 MT of rice straw per hectare per year across wet and dry seasons.

3.0 Implementation

The Presidential Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT) conducted an initial site survey for the Ekopanely Nigeria Project in Gora and Azman Farms, Nasarawa State, to estimate rice straw availability. Subsequent geophysical tests and analyses confirmed site suitability. Due to security concerns, the project site has been strategically relocated to Bauchi State, ensuring smoother execution and leveraging Tiamin Rice Farm’s operations.

4.0 Achievements

4.1 Land Survey and Suitability Confirmation

• A 73-hectare parcel of land in Gora, Nasarawa State, was surveyed and initially confirmed suitable for the manufacturing plant.

4.2 Lease Agreement

• The 73-hectare land was secured under a 10-year lease to host a rice farm, warehouse, and factory, including two production lines in the first phase.

4.3 Material Sampling and Analysis

• Rice straw samples from the initial site were sent to the Czech Republic to calibrate manufacturing parameters for optimal production.

4.4 Funding and Equipment Acquisition

• A US$3.4 million payment has been made to Ekopanely for one production line. Ekopanely has also contributed a second production line. Both lines are expected to arrive in Nigeria by April or May 2025.

4.5 Prototype House Construction

• Construction of a prototype house will commence immediately after the production lines’ arrival to demonstrate the technology’s application and viability.

5.0 Challenges

• Site Relocation: Security concerns necessitated multiple relocations, from Wushishi, Niger State, to Gora, Nasarawa State, and now to Bauchi State.

6.0 Impact and Benefits

6.1 Skill Development

• Over 3,800 individuals and firms across Nigeria will receive training on applying this innovative eco-construction technology, creating a new generation of builders and fostering SME growth in the real estate sector.

6.2 Boosting Local Agriculture

• By creating additional income streams for rice farmers, the project will enhance the competitiveness of locally produced rice, discouraging smuggling and importation.

6.3 Industry Diversification

• The project supports increased cardboard production, introduces bitumen adhesive manufacturing, and reduces dependency on cement, which will primarily be used for foundations and concrete pillars.

6.4 Market-Driven Development

• Housing and infrastructure projects will be guided by market demand, ensuring professional supervision and alignment with the National Housing Fund’s objectives.

7.0 Additional Information

The Ekopanely Nigeria Project exemplifies a sustainable development initiative combining environmental responsibility, economic growth, and housing affordability. The partnership with Tiamin Rice Farm strengthens the project’s foundation, ensuring a steady supply of raw materials and advancing Nigeria’s green economy.

Stay updated on the progress of this transformative initiative through our official website.